Zambia is working hard to improve its agricultural sector by building strong international partnerships and investing in better infrastructure. During the recent UN Food Systems Summit +4 in Addis Ababa, the Zambian government emphasized the importance of transport links—especially the Lobito Corridor—in helping farmers reach new export markets and grow the economy.
Minister of Agriculture Reuben Mtolo Phiri shared that Zambia remains committed to developing reliable systems that support agriculture and trade. He said projects like the Lobito Corridor, which connects Zambia to the Atlantic Ocean via Angola, are key to making Zambian farm products more competitive. Better roads, railways, and port access will help farmers reduce costs, improve delivery times, and reach new buyers outside the country.
“The Lobito Corridor plays a big role in transforming agriculture in Zambia and across the region,” Phiri said. He explained that while the country is focusing on creating more farming blocks and offering better farming support, success will depend on having the right transport infrastructure in place.
Phiri made these comments during a meeting with an Irish delegation led by Brendan Gleeson, Secretary General of Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The two countries discussed ways to work together more closely, especially in improving food systems and agricultural development.
Ireland has supported Zambia in several sectors over the years, including agriculture, education, and health. Gleeson praised Zambia’s efforts and said the country’s policies align well with Ireland’s development goals. He also encouraged further cooperation through the Zambia-Ireland Sustainable Food Systems Strengthening Programme; a joint effort aimed at improving food systems from the ground up.
The National Food and Nutrition Commission and Zambia’s Office of the Vice President are partners in this program. It offers expert services, technical assistance, and research to enhance public health, food processing, and agriculture. The program’s head, David Butler, says it also supports food safety and nutrition, provides training for agricultural workers, and fortifies animal health systems through the Ministry of Livestock.
Zambia’s strategy is not limited to the production of additional food; it also includes the development of the necessary infrastructure to facilitate its transportation and processing. The nation wants to modernize and prepare its agriculture for exports by connecting rural regions to important commercial routes like the Lobito Corridor.
By strengthening international ties, enhancing farming conditions, and enhancing transportation and logistics, Zambia is making significant strides toward the development of its agricultural sector. The nation intends to enhance its position in regional and international food systems and develop a more productive agricultural sector through these initiatives.
